Key Takeaways
- Edifier’s Stax Spirit S5 headphones deliver exceptional audio fidelity, boasting crystalline highs and robust bass.
- These Wi-Fi headphones excel at handling high-bitrate codecs via Bluetooth, boasting an impressive battery life that can last up to 80 hours.
- While the compact design of the Stax Spirit S5’s controls may present some challenges, the exceptional audio quality and robust build justify the investment.
Once we got our hands on Edifier’s flagship headphones, we were thoroughly impressed. Equipped with planar magnetic drivers, these headphones demonstrated an extraordinary level of sonic excellence, rendering their decision to forego compromises entirely justified. Despite its impressive credentials, the Edifier Stax Spirit S5 still leaves ample scope for refinement, achieving significant strides in that direction.
Without attempting to rival leading brands’ active noise cancellation prowess, the Edifier Stax Spirit S3 concentrates on delivering rich, distinct sound.
As an audiophile who has thoroughly tested these wireless headphones over the past few weeks, I am confident in declaring them the perfect pair I’ve had the pleasure of listening to. Read the fine print carefully.
Edifier Stax Spirit S5
The Edifier Stax Spirit S5 truly excel as the ideal wireless headphones for dedicated music enthusiasts currently available, making them a top choice for those seeking exceptional sound quality and comfort during extended listening sessions. With planar magnetic technology and a wide-ranging frequency response, this premium headset delivers comprehensive audio experiences.
- Clear, crystal-clear sound with precise highs and robust bass notes.
- To mitigate excessive bitrate codecs over Bluetooth, consider implementing adaptive bitrate technology that dynamically adjusts audio quality based on connection stability and available bandwidth. This approach ensures a more consistent listening experience while minimizing the risk of dropped packets or distorted audio. By incorporating advanced error correction mechanisms, you can further reduce the impact of intermittent signal degradation on overall audio quality.
- The device will be connected via USB to a digital audio system.
- Management buttons are frustratingly small, rendering accurate entry a challenging task.
We refrain from speculative examination without empirical evidence. We thoroughly examine the products we sell and exclusively produce buyer’s guides for items we have personally tested.
Value, availability, and specs
The Edifier Stax Spirit S5 headphones are now available on Edifier’s official website and Amazon, priced at $499.99. The headphones’ price tag comfortably resides in the premium category for Wi-Fi headphones, although it surpasses the newer $449 over-ear models and falls short of the usual $549 mark.
The Spirit S5’s most impressive feature lies in its planar magnetic drivers, employing a slender, electrically conductive diaphragm situated between powerful magnets to deliver an exceptionally accurate sound, often surpassing the quality achievable with conventional dynamic drivers.
Furthermore, the headphones are equipped with advanced technology that enables them to seamlessly support a wide range of high-quality audio formats via Bluetooth, including proprietary Snapdragon codecs as well as widely adopted standards such as AAC, commonly found in iPhone devices.
Boasting an impressive 80-hour battery life, these headphones consistently deliver on their promise, making them ideal for extended listening sessions or even a full day of use without needing recharging. On top of Bluetooth connectivity, the Edifier ConneX app enables further precise control.
The nuances of sound that danced across my eardrums as I wrapped myself in the Stax Spirit S5’s sonic embrace were nothing short of mesmerizing. The harmonies seemed to unfurl like tender petals, revealing hidden layers and textures that left me breathless. With every note, the earphones conjured an atmosphere of effortless refinement, transporting me to a world where music was both art and solace.
A sound like no different
Following a cursory review of the Stax Spirit S5’s specifications, I was eager to put them through their paces. I started by putting on some music from my iPhone, and I found the Spirit S5 to be impressively comfortable, with a plush design that was easy to navigate and operate. I presented a concert performance of Above and Beyond’s iconic song, “We Are All We Need”, showcasing the composition’s emotional highs and lows. Zoë Johnston’s ethereal voice soared with crystal clarity, but it was the bass’s sudden surge that truly showcased the depth and nuance of the planar drivers’ expressiveness. Despite being aware that my iPhone’s AAC codec imposed certain constraints, I acknowledged that its transmission of music to headphones was restricted by its use of 16-bit depth and a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz. I connected the headphones to my PC via USB-C and activated them.
While several digital audio gamers take advantage of the S5’s support for numerous lossless and Hi-Fi codecs, unfortunately, the iPhone is not among them.
As I immersed myself in the sonic tapestry of M83’s groundbreaking 2011 album Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming, played on my Windows-based home computer, I must confess that I was utterly bewitched. As the intro began, I sat smiling, trying to comprehend the sheer quality of sound emanating from these consumer-focused over-ear headphones. The synths boasted a palpable crispness, while the reverb-drenched vocals seemed tailor-made for high-fidelity playback through quality speakers or headphones. The audio was remarkably clear, surpassing any headphones I’ve reviewed.
Ultimately, these headphones demand only the finest quality audio recordings that they are capable of processing.
Although the planar design may not replicate the very same bass-heavy response found in certain wireless headphones, it does result in a more harmoniously balanced sound profile overall.
When evaluating new headphones, I rely on a curated selection of tracks and albums to assess their sonic capabilities.
As Midnight Metropolis takes stage, its planar drivers execute their mission with meticulous precision, delivering a crystal-clear sonic experience of unwavering accuracy. Ultimately, these headphones demand the finest, most premium audio files that you can possibly provide them.
Construct high quality for days
I’ve now spent hours listening to music on the S5, and I’ve come to realize that it’s no longer an issue for me to wear headphones for extended periods of time without feeling uncomfortable. The lambskin earpads are impressively comfortable, boasting just the right amount of cushion that provides exceptional passive noise-cancellation without exerting excessive pressure on the ears. The headphones have a substantial build that exudes durability, yet remain surprisingly comfortable even during extended listening sessions.
Immerse yourself in a superior sonic experience, indulging in the rich details of high-fidelity audio, while enjoying the comfort and convenience of premium open-ear earbuds that have been thoroughly tested for exceptional performance.
While prolonged use of the lambskin earpads may cause your ears and head to warm up excessively, the Stax Spirit S5 offers an additional solution: a set of cooling mesh earpads designed to mitigate this issue. I additionally appreciate the fact that the headband features a simple, adjustable design that allows it to sit comfortably and securely atop my head.
The original text was:
What I did not like in regards to the Stax Spirit S5 is that they are quite expensive and may not be suitable for everyone due to their unique design which can make them stand out a bit too much. Also, some people might find it difficult to adjust to the new sound because of the different materials used and the way the earcups fit.
Improved text:
While I appreciated many aspects of the Stax Spirit S5, I had reservations about their steep price point and unconventional design, which may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, the unique sound signature and ergonomic fit may require some acclimation, potentially posing a challenge for those accustomed to more traditional headphones.
Inconspicuous minuscule interfaces that I will undoubtedly neglect.
Despite initial reservations, I found the headset’s controls frustratingly difficult to navigate. The buttons are surprisingly limited, each serving multiple purposes, and incredibly small. Each button performs a distinct function when pressed once, a different action when pressed twice, and yet another outcome when held continuously. This statement lacks clarity and concision, hindering its effectiveness.
To fully unlock the capabilities of your new Bluetooth headphones, consider pairing them with an Android device instead of being limited by the iOS operating system.
Given that you’ll primarily use these devices on your PC or iPhone, a simple click of the play, pause, next, etc. buttons suffices. While the system I’m using to record my songs provides me with a certain level of control and flexibility, it can sometimes be frustrating for those who prefer to have complete management over their tracks, whether they’re working on a portable device or from afar. While initially inconsequential, the peripheral controls on contemporary headphones ultimately prove unnecessary discoveries, serving only as occasional conveniences.
Should You Really Spend Your Hard-Earned Cash on the Stax Spirit S5 Headphones?
The Edifier Stax Spirit S5 wireless headphones truly embody perfection in my experience with them. I’ve been wearing these headphones for hours, alongside me as I write this assessment. I’ve discovered that music has become an invigorating experience for me, akin to the pleasure I derive from playing my favorite tracks on my high-fidelity home stereo system.
Edifier Stax Spirit S5
For audiophiles seeking top-tier wireless headphones, consider investing in these premium models, despite their higher price point. As Edifier solidifies its reputation as a serious player in the audio industry, the Stax Spirit S5 is poised to be a lucrative flagship offering from the Chinese brand, with its exceptional quality and performance expected to resonate globally alongside established names.
